Why a pre-market checklist helps
Pre-market preparation reduces rushed, reactive entries. When your checklist is complete before the open, your entry checklist becomes faster to execute and your journal data is easier to compare during a weekly review.
Pre-market checklist
- Setup is still valid. Confirm price structure still matches the setup rules in your trade plan template.
- Event risk is mapped. Check for earnings, macro releases, and other catalysts that can change implied volatility.
- Risk budget is confirmed. Verify planned max loss and position size using your risk plan checklist.
- Execution levels are defined. Write entry trigger, invalidation point, and first management checkpoint.
- Order plan is prepared. Decide order type, expected fill zone, and the condition that cancels the trade idea.
- Journal fields are ready. Prepare setup tag, context notes, and the fields you will complete at fill time.
Suggested pre-market fields
| Field | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Planned setup | Keeps entries tied to a known playbook | Put credit spread on failed breakout |
| Catalyst check | Highlights event-driven volatility risk | CPI release before open |
| Go/no-go trigger | Clarifies when you can execute | Hold above pre-market range low |
| Initial invalidation | Defines what cancels the idea | Break and close below support |
| Prepared tags | Speeds review filtering later | trend-day, pullback, event-risk |
Handoff to entry and review
After the open, complete the entry checklist using your prepared notes. If conditions change after entry, document decisions with the trade adjustment checklist and close the loop later with the exit checklist.
Quick self-check questions
- Is this setup still valid at current pre-market conditions?
- Did I verify event timing that can change trade behavior?
- Do I know exactly what invalidates the trade idea?
- Are my journal fields ready before execution?
Related guides
Use this page with the trade plan template, risk plan checklist, entry checklist, and performance review guide.
FAQ
How long should pre-market prep take?
Keep it time-boxed. The checklist should confirm readiness, not become a second analysis session.
What if the setup changes right before the open?
If the checklist no longer passes, skip the entry or update the plan first. Documenting the no-trade decision can still improve review quality.